Carbon monoxide poisoning is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America. (Centers for Disease Control)

More than two-thirds of Americans use gas, wood, kerosene or another fuel as their home’s major heat source.

65% of carbon monoxide poisoning deaths from consumer products are due to heating systems.

Only 50% of homes in America have CO alarms, according to industry surveys.

An idling vehicle in an attached garage, even with the garage door opened, can produce concentrated amounts of CO that can enter your home through the garage door or nearby windows.

Portable generators were involved in the majority of CO deaths involving engine-driven tools from 1999 through 2012. (CPSC)

A poorly maintained gas stove can give off twice the amount of CO than one that is in good working order.

Tips for prevention

Install at least one battery-powered CO alarm or AC-powered unit with battery backup on each level of your home and near sleeping areas.

Do not use charcoal or gas grills inside or operate outdoors near a window where CO fumes could seep in.

Check all CO alarms in your home. Do they use the most accurate sensing technology? Do they need new batteries?

Replace CO alarms every five to seven years to benefit from the latest technology upgrades.

Have a licensed professional inspect heating systems and other fuel-burning appliances annually.

Install fuel-burning appliances properly and operate them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Keep chimneys clear of animal nests, leaves and residue to ensure proper venting. Have all fireplaces cleaned and inspected annually.

Do not block or seal shut the exhaust flues or ducts used by water heaters, ranges and clothes dryers.

Do not leave your car running in an attached garage or carport.

Do not use ovens or stoves to heat your home.

Do you have a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home? Is your CO detector ten years old or older? We will make sure that you have one installed on each level during our initial visit to your home.

According to the manufacture and the National Fire Protection Association, the service life of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors is 10 years from the date of manufacture. Since 2009, ALL carbon monoxide detectors cease detecting CO once the detector enters the “End-of-Life” mode, leaving your family unprotected.